Residents in Haasendal, Annandale, and surrounding Kuils River neighborhoods are expressing concerns over a recent surge in attempted housebreakings. Community members claim that several incidents have occurred, leaving families fearful despite increased security measures and neighborhood vigilance. The incidents have raised concerns about organized crime, with some residents speculating that suspects may be scouting properties before targeting homes in the early hours of the morning.
One resident, Hayley Hector, narrowly escaped becoming a victim when three unidentified men allegedly attempted to break into her Boegoe Crescent home at approximately 4:30 am on Friday, October 23, 2026. According to Hector, the suspects managed to remove a window before the family activated their panic button, sending the intruders fleeing over a vibracrete wall. Hector described the incident as traumatic, saying she felt afraid, anxious, and violated.
The suspects allegedly abandoned the tool used to remove the window, and CCTV footage captured them inspecting the property and peering through windows. Two ADT security vehicles responded and searched the premises. Hector believes the same suspects may have targeted another property in Haasendal shortly after 2 am, followed by a home in Kameeldoring, Rouxville, around 3 am, before arriving at her residence. However, police have not confirmed whether the incidents are linked.
SAPS spokesperson Sergeant Wesley Twigg confirmed that an attempted housebreaking case had been registered. Twigg stated that the circumstances surrounding the incident are under investigation, and no arrests have been made yet. The investigation continues, with police urging residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity.
A community activist raised concerns about the frequency of incidents, claiming residents were increasingly being targeted while asleep. The activist called for stronger municipal law enforcement and enforcement of by-laws, particularly around suspicious activity in residential streets. The activist also expressed concerns about people lingering on street corners, although no evidence links jobseekers to the attempted break-ins.
Residents have requested increased police patrols, while ADT is reportedly conducting daily patrols at Hector's property. SAPS has not confirmed an increase in housebreakings across the affected neighborhoods. Hector said she continues to experience sleepless nights and worries about her family's safety, but has decided to share her experience to create awareness and encourage residents to remain vigilant.
The surge in attempted housebreakings has left residents feeling uneasy, with many calling for increased measures to ensure their safety. Hector hopes her story will prompt other families to be more alert to suspicious activity in their neighborhoods and take precautions to protect their homes. The incidents serve as a reminder for residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to the authorities.
Key points
- Residents in Haasendal, Annandale, and Kuils River report increased attempted housebreakings.
- The incidents have raised concerns about organized crime and the need for increased security measures.
- Residents are calling for stronger municipal law enforcement and increased police patrols.
